THE NEW NISSAN MAXIMA QX
OVERVIEW
Nissan's second-generation Maxima QX, its most prestigious European saloon model, was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show 2000. This new Maxima QX, which has sister models in both Japan and the US, has been significantly upgraded in the areas of comfort, space, safety, performance and equipment. With redesigned bodywork, revised suspension, more interior space for both passengers and luggage, and the choice of refined V6 24-valve engines; an economical 2.0-litre or potent 200PS 3.0-litre, the Maxima QXis set to widen its appeal in the European E-segment market.
The discrete lines of the current model have been redrawn to allow a 50mm longer wheelbase, with a higher and wider cabin. The extra dimensions allow a significantly more spacious interior, which is complemented by new trim, redesigned controls and extra stowage spaces. Meticulous engineering and development has further suppressed noise, vibration or harshness.
The two V6 engine options offer refined response and discreetly powerful performance. The 3.0-litre now produces 147kW (200PS) and 271Nm of
torque. Each of the all-alloy engines features 24 valves, four cams and a host of technical innovations, and can drive through a four-speed, triple-mode automatic gearbox designed specifically for the Maxima QX, or a five-speed manual gearbox.
The bodyshell is 30 per cent stiffer than the current model, and so forms a more rigid platform for the suspension. The proven front MacPherson strut, coil spring and anti-roll bar arrangement is retained, but the rear suspension has been redesigned. The Multi-Link Beam suspension combines the advantages of both torsion beam and composite linkage, but in this latest application the lateral link has been moved from ahead of the beam, to behind it. The effect is to improve stability still further, while further reducing noise levels.
The Maxima QX “family” sells strongly in the key global markets, with each version tailored closely to its customers and market. In the US, where demand for E-segment cars is widespread, more than 130,000 Maxima models were sold in 1999.
The sleek new lines of the Maxima QX, complete with three new colour schemes, frame an elegant and safe interior that is more spacious and better appointed than before. Uprated ABS braking is now combined with Nissan Brake Assist and Electronic Brake force Distribution to provide a key improvement in its safety and security package.
With Nissan’s celebrated build quality and sophisticated performance, the new Maxima QX re-establishes itself at the head of Nissan’s saloon car range.
THE NISSAN MAXIMA QX AT A GLANCE
· Redesigned body that is 150mm longer, 10mm wider, 50mm longer in the wheelbase and with 35mm more legroom in the front and rear
· Luggage capacity improved by18 0 per cent, from 440 to 520 litres (VDA)
· Choice of 2.0-litre V6 or uprated award-winning 3.0-litre V6 with 200PS (3.6 per cent increase) and 271Nm of torque (6.3 per cent increase)
· Noise, vibration and harshness reduced
· Refined new Multi-Link Beam suspension with re-positioned lateral link to improve comfort and stability
· Improved visibility and ease of entry thanks to larger doors opening wider and higher hip-point for the seats
· Larger front seats with more support
· UV-cut glass fitted throughout
· Sophisticated four-channel ABS fitted as standard with Nissan Brake Assist and Electronic Brake force Distribution
· The latest NATS Step 5 security system with immobiliser
· Unique 3D BirdView Satellite Navigation system available (market dependent)
· Available in three models: 2.0 SE, 2.0 SE+ and 3.0 SE+
THE NISSAN MAXIMA QX IN DETAIL
EXTERIOR
The latest Maxima QX is larger in all significant measurements, allowing more room for driver and passengers while commanding more road presence. With new elegant but discrete design, the Maxima QX is styled to retain is existing customer base, while stimulating more interest from those in other segments of the market.
At 4920mm, the overall length is increased by 150mm, the height has risen by 20mm and the width by 10mm - all dimensions contributing to increased interior space and comfort. From the outside, the larger size improves the presence and executive image of the Maxima QX. Also featured at the front of the long, sloping bonnet are the latest generation xenon gas discharge headlamps. Their distinctive ‘blue’ light produces a wider spread at night, which is 100 per cent more intense than halogen lamps. The new front grille, with stylised “flying wing” inserts and bumper with integrated fog lamps add to the distinctive lines of the Maxima QX. Flush-fitting high-pressure washers, which pop out under use, not only contribute to safety, but also maintain clean airflow when not in operation.
The bumpers not only mould neatly into the lines of the car, they are designed to absorb low speed and parking-type impacts (up to 8km/h) without any damage, thereby reducing repair bills and increasing day-to-day practicality.
The bumpers form part of Nissan’s “Zone Body Concept” which integrates impact-absorbing crush zones at the front and rear to protect the occupants in the event of a serious accident.
INTERIOR
Nissan’s stylists and engineers have targeted comfort, luxury and practicality in the development of the Maxima QX’s new cabin.
With the significant 50mm addition to the wheelbase, Nissan’s designers were able to increase legroom in both the front and rear by 35mm each. The driver also has 10mm more headroom as well as benefiting from the increased cabin width. The seats are set higher – the hip point is raised 5mm in the front and 15mm in the rear – to give a more commanding driving position and to reduce the effort of getting in and out.
Like the front passenger, the driver is comfortably located in a larger seat with more support, with a better view not just of the road ahead but also of the vehicle all round. With more space for headroom, shoulders and legs, the fundamental comfort levels in the Maxima QX have been significantly enhanced.
Nissan engineers have also refined the driving environment. The switchgear has been redesigned into a more logical grouping, with some switches now larger and easier to use. Steering wheel mounted audio controls are now standard. Ahead of the driver, the dials in the dual-tone fascia now feature 30 per cent larger lettering in a clearer design using new “Fine Vision” electrofluorescent lighting technology. Improving rear visibility, the driver’s mirror now features an automatic anti-dazzle function.
New comfort and convenience features include extra-thick glass throughout, which has been treated to cut down on both noise and ultraviolet rays and Nissan’s unique new 3D BirdView satellite navigation system. Integrated into the dashboard within the driver’s natural line of vision, this navigation aid provides a 3D view of the road ahead from a simulated position above and behind the driver.
Throughout, there is new trim and a dual-tone fascia, with the steering wheel matched to the upper dashboard colour.
Behind the rear seats, the boot size has increased 18 per cent to 520 litres (VDA) and has 10 useful anchor points as well as a multi-purpose cargo net. A ski-flap links the boot with the rear seats, but for added security the door has an anti-theft lock to stop further access if entry has been forced via the boot.
The cabin has been insulated from noise, vibration and harshness by a comprehensive series of measures, from triple-sealing the front doors, to the fundamental design of the Multi-Link Beam suspension.
ENGINE
The all-alloy VQ engine in the Maxima QX has been an award-winning engine for the last six years. The independent US motoring journal, “Ward’s Auto World”, has voted the engine into its “10 Best Engines” award every year since 1994 – itself a record. The VQ engine is a four-camshaft, 24-valve V6 with variable induction, direct ignition and Nissan’s powerful management system. The 60-deg V6 units are light, efficient and sophisticated in either 2.0-litre or 3.0-litre form.
Even within the demanding E segment of the market, the VQ engine provides class-leading standards of refinement, response and performance. The 3.0-litre V6 now boasts more power and torque. Refining both the air intake system and the camshafts’ operation led to a power rise from 193PS to 200PS at 6,400rpm. Torque, which is key for effortless performance, has risen from 255Nm at 4,000rpm to 271Nm at just 3,600rpm. Power and torque figures for the 2.0 V6 remain unchanged.
The result is improved ‘driveability’, with useful performance available from low engine speeds. Despite its higher power output, the 3.0 V6 actually has improved fuel consumption when cruising at high speed, and noticeably lower levels of noise, vibration and harshness. This is partly explained by the engine mountings, which use a combination of conventional and fluid damping. On versions with automatic transmission the engine mounts are electronically controlled and respond actively to engine speed and hence, lowers vibration.
Additional technological advance in this area includes microfinished surfaces in the engine that increase efficiency by reducing friction, and molybdenum-coated pistons that also help reduce internal friction.
TRANSMISSION
A five-speed manual gearbox, or specially developed four-speed automatic transmission is available for the Maxima QX. Gearchanges are electronically controlled for optimised smoothness, and a mechanical lock-up on fourth gear and a redesigned torque converter promote exceptional fuel efficiency.
CHASSIS & SUSPENSION
Nissan’s engineers have concentrated on optimising the balance between handling and comfort. The body, 30 per cent stiffer than that of the previous model, creates a platform that resists vibration and hence noise, and yet which forms a solid location for the suspension. The front system of MacPherson strut, transverse links, coil springs, telescopic dampers and anti-roll bar has been subtly refined to improve ride comfort and control, but more major changes have been made to the rear.
The unique Nissan rear Multi-Link Beam suspension has been refined. The torsion beam axle is still controlled by the composite lateral link and control rod, with conventional springs and dampers. This system allows the wheels to move only in a vertical plane in relation to the body, whatever the road conditions or cornering forces. But now the lateral link has been moved from ahead of the torsion beam, to behind it. This results in “Super Toe Control”, which maximises tyre grip, minimises body roll and maintains directional stability.
This system was first designed specifically for the front-wheel drive Maxima QX, and it improves stability on both straight roads and during cornering. It also reduces vibration and hence noise in the cabin. In line with Nissan’s on-going quest to improve the quality of driving experience, a refined power-assisted rack and pinion steering system, with improved compliance and steering response is introduced.
SAFETY
The new Nissan Maxima QX’s design ensures that driver visibility, one of the fundamental elements of safety, is optimised. With this design, and a higher hip point, the driver, commands a clear view in all directions - including the extremities of the Maxima QX.
Designed-in stability and positive response, together with improved braking systems complete the dynamic safety package. The standard four-channel, four-wheel ABS operates on disc brakes front and rear, with the ventilated front pair 2mm larger and with brake cylinder sizes increased both front and rear.
Under emergency braking conditions, the ABS is rapidly deployed thanks to Nissan Brake Assist, a reliable mechanical two-stage booster system designed to amplify the pressure on the pedal. These two systems are joined by Electronic Brake force Distribution, which distributes the maximum braking pressure to each axle according to load.
Passive safety measures centre on a highly rigid body structure incorporating the impact-absorbing Zone Body, with crushable zones and safety restraint zone. In addition to this, dual SRS front airbags, and side head and thorax airbags for the front seats are standard. These operate in tandem with the seatbelts, which are controlled by pre-tensionsers and load limiters. All three rear-seating positions have headrests and three-point seatbelts, with the two outer seats featuring ISOFIX anchor points for the secure installation of child seats.
Active head restraints, which help reduce whiplash injuries by moving upward and forward to support the head in the event of a rear collision, are fitted to the front seats as standard.
SECURITY
The new Maxima QX features the leading-edge security technology NATS 5 (Nissan Anti Theft System) with upgraded engine immobiliser. The Maxima QX is supplied with two ignition keys, and each memorises the personal radio settings of its ‘owner’. This means that two drivers can each retain radio stations of their choice, simply by inserting the ignition key.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT
Linda Robinson Press Officer, Product Affairs 01923 899930
Andrew Roberts Manager, Product Affairs 01923 899930
All Nissan news releases can be downloaded from the Newspress website at http://www.newspress.co.uk
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